Your mattress is more than just a comfy spot to crash—it’s a key player in your health and well-being. But no matter how good the quality, even the best mattress to sleep on won’t last forever without the right care. Most mattresses hold up for about 7 to 10 years, but with a few simple habits, you can easily extend mattress lifespan and save money in the long run.
Here’s how to get the most out of your mattress while keeping your sleep space fresh, clean, and supportive.
Clean Bed Mattress Regularly (and Properly)
There are clear signs your mattress needs cleaning—like odours, allergy flare-ups, visible stains, or a musty smell.
Not cleaning your mattress can lead to more than just bad smells. Over time, dust mites, bacteria, sweat, dead skin, and allergens quietly build up—even if you can’t see them—and this can seriously affect your health, causing allergy flare-ups, breathing issues, and poor sleep. The dangers of not cleaning your mattress go far beyond surface-level dirt and can impact both your comfort and wellbeing. To keep things fresh, vacuum your mattress every few months, spot-clean stains with a mild cleaner, and air it out regularly by stripping off all bedding and letting it breathe.
Be Hygienic
Your sleep space plays a big role in your mattress’s condition.
- Avoid eating in bed. Crumbs and spills lead to mess and mould.
- Try to keep pets off the bed. Fur, dander, paws, and the occasional accident can make your mattress dirty or damaged quickly. If you do let them up, use extra protective layers.
- Do not skip regular sheet washing. It’s one of the quickest ways to ruin a clean bed. Oils and sweat build up fast, leading to odours, bacteria, and yellowing.
- Do not store dirty items under the bed. Dust and allergens can rise into your mattress—use sealed bins and keep the area clean.
This kind of regular care doesn’t just keep things tidy—it also protects your mattress long-term.
Use a Mattress Protector – Your First Line of Defence
If there’s one thing every bed should have, it’s a quality mattress protector. The importance of using a mattress protector can’t be overstated—it shields your mattress from sweat, spills, dust mites, and allergens. It also helps prevent stains, which is crucial since most warranties become void if your mattress is stained.
Look for a breathable, waterproof protector and wash it regularly to keep your bed mattress clean and hygienic.
Make Sure It’s Well Supported
Your mattress needs the right foundation to do its job. Whether that’s a box spring, platform frame, or slatted base, proper support stops sagging and helps maintain the mattress’s shape over time.
If your mattress sits directly on the floor, you’re risking moisture buildup, poor airflow, and eventually mould. A sturdy base is essential for a long-lasting mattress.
Don’t Jump on It
Jumping on the bed may seem harmless, but it can seriously damage the mattress structure. Constant pressure from jumping breaks down springs or foam and can cause sagging, noise issues, or early wear. It’s also a safety hazard—especially for kids—so best to leave the bouncing for the trampoline.
Let It Soak Up Some Sunshine
Every few months, take your mattress outside for a bit of fresh air and sun (on a dry day, of course). Sunlight helps get rid of trapped moisture, bacteria, and bad smells. Just avoid leaving it in direct sun for too long, especially if it’s memory foam.
Give It a Spin – Mattress Rotation Matters
One of the best practices for mattress maintenance is rotating it regularly. Sleeping in the same position every night puts pressure on certain areas, leading to uneven wear, sagging, or dips.
Rotating your mattress, the head becomes the foot, helps spread that wear evenly. Some mattresses can be flipped too—but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines first. A good mattress rotation schedule for longevity:
- Memory foam: rotate every 6 months
- Innerspring or hybrid: rotate 2–4 times per year
This one simple step helps keep your mattress supportive and comfortable for longer.
Be Careful When Moving It
When moving house or shifting furniture, handle your mattress with care. Use a heavy-duty plastic cover to protect it from dirt, rain, and scuffs. Don’t fold or bend it, and always carry it upright when possible.
Know When It’s Time for a Change
No mattress lasts forever—even with perfect care. Watch for these signs that it’s time to replace yours:
- Sagging or deep body impressions
- Waking up sore or not sleeping well
- Persistent odours
- Increased allergies or asthma at night
- It’s more than 8–10 years old
Looking after your mattress doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few consistent habits—rotating it, cleaning it, using a protector, and knowing when to call in professional mattress cleaning services in Sydney—you’ll get years of comfort and better sleep.
Stick to these tips, and your mattress will stay fresh, supportive, and in great shape far longer than you’d expect.
